A modified V-shaped incision combined with superficial musculo-aponeurotic system flap for parotidectomy

V-shaped incision (VSI) for parotidectomy had been introduced for cosmetic purpose. Despite having aesthetic superiority, it required excessive retraction or an additional hairline incision for adequate surgical exposure. To overcome these problems, we conceptualized a modified VSI approach combined with a separate superficial musculo-aponeurotic system flap.

This study aimed to propose this approach and evaluate its technical feasibility and efficacy for excision of parotid tumors.

This is a prospective, nonrandomized study involving 74 patients with small-to-medium (<4 cm), benign parotid tumors located superficially. The patients were divided into two groups based on the incision techniques used: modified VSI and modified Blair incision (MBI). The clinical outcomes of both approaches for parotidectomy were analyzed.

Thirty-four patients underwent modified VSI approach, while 40 underwent MBI. All parotidectomies with modified VSI were successfully completed without any further incision, and no facial nerve injury or intraoperative tumor rupture complication was reported. There were no significant differences in the complications between both approaches, such as hematoma, infection, wound dehiscence, skin necrosis, sialocele, or sensory disturbance. The modified VSI group showed better cosmetic satisfaction results than did the MBI group (9.2 and 7.8, respectively; p < .001).

The modified VSI approach is safe and feasible for small-to-medium benign parotid tumors. This approach could be a possible option for patients with a high cosmetic demand.

4.

Prospective pilot study.